Artwork
Rome, from the Vatican. Raffaelle, Accompanied by La Fornarina, Preparing his Pictures for the Decoration of the Loggia
Rome, from the Vatican. Raffaelle, Accompanied by La Fornarina, Preparing his Pictures for the Decoration of the Loggia is an oil painting by Joseph Mallord William Turner. It dates from 1820 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery. Rome, from the Vatican is a history painting created by J.
About this work
Overview
Rome, from the Vatican is a history painting created by J.M.W. Turner in 1820, depicting a scene from the Vatican with a view of Rome in the background.
Subject & Meaning
The painting commemorates the 300th anniversary of Raphael's death, showing him in the Vatican loggias with La Fornarina, surrounded by his artworks, as he prepares decorations for the loggia.
Technique & Style
Turner's skill in capturing light and atmosphere is evident, with warm sunlight illuminating the grand cityscape and ornate Vatican architecture.
History & Provenance
Painted in 8-10 weeks after Turner's return from Italy, the work was exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 1820 and later became part of the Turner Bequest in 1856, now housed at Tate Britain.
Context
Notably, Turner included Bernini's 17th-century colonnades in the depiction, despite their anachronism, reflecting his artistic liberties.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joseph Mallord William Turner was born in 1775 at Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, where his father kept a barber and wig-making shop.
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